A Longitudinal Study of Risk and Resistance Factors Among Children With Juvenile Rheumatic Disease

Abstract

Examined the extent to which a model of risk and resistance factors (i.e., maternal dysfunction, family stressors, and maternal and family resources) explained concurrent and subsequent psychosocial functioning among 165 children with juvenile rheumatic disease. The study also identified specific risk and resistance factors that were associated with adaptation. Risk, resistance, and disease-related factors, as well as patient functioning and outcomes in several domains, were assessed by mothers and patients on two occasions 1 year apart. Risk, resistance, and disease factors were highly stable. Concurrent risk and resistance factors predicted psychosocial outcomes, but prior risk and resistance factors were less successful predictors. Regarding specific factors, mothers who were not depressed and had a sense of mastery over their child's illness appeared to aid adjustment. Some of the same factors that influence psychosocial adjustment among physically healthy children appear to also influence the adjustm...